Explore holidays in Skopelos
A villa or hotel holiday in Skopelos – wonderfully green, unspoilt and peaceful – is about enjoying a world which moves at holiday pace. Its wonderful beaches range from secluded coves to more organized spots like Panormos, Milia and Kastani, well equipped with sunbeds, watersports and beach bars for idyllic days by the sea. Our villas on Skopelos are some of the very best available on the island, a mix of brand new villas and stylish renovations, family properties and smaller romantic retreats, almost all with their own private swimming pool. Location is key, so our properties are either walking distance to Skopelos Town or blessed with fantastic views, or in many cases, both!
Skopelos Town is a Traditional Settlement of Outstanding Beauty, with a charming Chora (old town). White houses wreathed in bougainvillea line narrow cobbled streets that wind steeply down to the harbour. The Chora and port are packed with tavernas, restaurants and speciality shops, offering just enough to keep things interesting without being over-developed. Here, as elsewhere on the island, you can spot fragments of Ottoman and Venetian heritage in monasteries and churches, or simply sit down on the waterfront in the sunshine and watch the world go gently by.
Treat yourself to a stay on one of our luxury villas or our stylish partner hotel in Skopelos and you'll soon understand why they filmed Mamma Mia! here.
A selection of our holidays in Skopelos
* Prices include seven nights’ accommodation, flights and transfers/car hire, based on the lowest rate for maximum occupancy.
Our guide to Skopelos
In this section...
Introduction to Skopelos
A quietly confident gem
To round the imposing headland that hides Skopelos Town from the open Aegean is to happen, all of a sudden, upon the archetypal Greek scene. Ancient terracotta-tiled buildings race one another down a hillside to reach the azure blue bay below – a landslide of whitewash flecked with shocking pink bougainvillea.
The only way to reach Skopelos is by boat, which seems fitting for an island so nonchalant about attracting tourism. Agriculture is the mainstay of commercial activity; olives and plums growing across a land too mountainous to ever consider hosting an airstrip.
An island at its own pace
The largest of the Sporades Islands, Skopelos is still less than 100km2. From a lush interior, criss-crossed with goat tracks and dotted with bright blue beehives, rise two mountains which preside over the leisurely comings and goings of craft on the azure waters all around.
Lunching in waterfront tavernas, relaxing in secret courtyards and wandering the wonderfully serene landscapes form the mainstay of activity here. You'll gain a proper appreciation of the here and now – and of a landscape unchanged for thousands of years.
The Chora
Sitting under the watchful eye of the steadfast Venetian fortress high above, the tumble of freshly whitened buildings that make up Skopelos Town’s northern flank is known as the Chora.
The inspiration for many a Greek oil painting, the Chora is the heart of the island; a charming tangle of cobbled alleyways, where the curious will find classy little shops and innovative restaurants alongside the more traditional tavernas and kiosks.
As you follow the streets upwards, snatched glimpses of the Aegean give you a sense of just how high into the labyrinth you've climbed. But the explorer can meander happily here without fear of getting lost; downwards only ever leads back to the harbour below.
A Greek tragedy averted
Amid even the briefest of explorations, Skopelos evokes glimmers of déjà vu – vague recognitions of scenes from the hit musical film Mamma Mia!, which was shot here in 2007.
When Hollywood departed, fears stirred that fame might go to the island’s head. Happily, though, the Skopelites’ steely determination was enough to protect their cherished land from the ravages of tourism and its beauty remains remarkably free of gaudiness – from pine-clad mountains to its charming, unspoilt coast.
Even by Greek island standards, this is a place where time has stood still. And the serenely relaxing holiday to be enjoyed here will be all the more memorable for it.
At a glance
Map and other regions
Food & drink
A taste of Skopelos
Skopelos food is typical of the Mediterranean. It’s locally sourced and traditionally prepared, with shared starters called orektika, preceding main dishes of fish or meat which lend sumptuous flavour to hearty casseroles and roasts. All the traditional Greek favourites are here, and if after a night or two you yearn for something lighter, the younger generation of Skopelos chefs offer up menus fusing time-honoured flavours with modern ingredients.
The local cheese pie, so proudly Skopeletian, is said to have made its way here when a girl from neighbouring Alonissos married her Skopelos husband. But whatever its origin, you’ll be glad to have tried it.
Plums provide the key dessert ingredient on the island, harking back to the days when Skopelos was renowned for producing some of the finest prunes in the world. The tradition of massaging each fruit by hand as it came out of the oven may be a thing of the past, but the island’s moreish plum recipes will be around for years to come.
Skopeletian tipples
Tsipouro may be the local drink, but thanks to the Cretans, viticulture is alive and well on Skopelos. Local wine is white, refreshing and a good accompaniment to many a meal, but for something with added interest, look for retsina which is made by sealing wine vessels with pine resin.
Eating locally
Whichever stretch of sea you favour as your evening’s backdrop, there’ll be a waterfront taverna to suit. For something a little fancier, head for a Glossa roof terrace in the north or the nearby port of Loutraki.
Skopelos Town is one of the loveliest harbours in Greece and offers plenty of tavernas tucked away amongst the cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and overhanging balconies. For a waterfront setting, try Agnondas; this delightful town is developing something of a foodie following, and as a bonus you can sit and watch the fishing boats going out for the evening catch. The best sunset dining is at one of the beach tavernas in Panormos.
Beaches
Milia
This one has it all: a mix of white sand and pebbles, backed by pine trees and lapped by clear water. There are sunbeds, watersports and a beach bar; a top spot for sunsets. Very popular so arrive early in high season.
Location: On the west coast of Skopelos, around a 20 min drive from Skopelos Town just north of Panormos; signed turnoff from the main coastal road, with a small car park.
Kastani
Superbly photogenic, as you might expect from the beach where scenes from Mamma Mia! were filmed. It’s the classic Greek island backdrop of turquoise water and emerald pine trees, with a bar and sunbeds so you can easily make a day of it.
Location: Immediately north of Milia on the west coast, roughly 15 km from Skopelos Town. The last few hundred metres are along an unmade road so please take care with a hire car.
Stafilos
A beautiful bay popular with families thanks to its shallow water and plentiful pine trees for shade. It’s a mix of pebbles and sand, so little feet might do better with jelly shoes on. Combines well with a visit to Skopelos Town.
Location: Roughly 4 km south of Skopelos Town. There’s a parking area at the top of the hill, from where you can follow a path downhill to the beach.
Panormos
This is a good choice for a windy day as the beach is nicely sheltered, with lots of tavernas nearby if you need to retreat from the heat. The views are wonderful and it’s well served with all the usual amenities including sunbeds for comfort on the pebble-and-sand mix.
Location: On the west coast, about 12 km from Skopelos Town on the main coastal road. Parking is usually available behind the tavernas that line the bay.
Velanio
It takes a little more effort to reach Velanio, which means it’s generally quieter. It’s also quite secluded, with some parts popular with nudists and what some call a bit of an alternative vibe. The setting and sea are naturally beautiful.
Location: Immediately beyond Stafylos beach—walk to the far end of Stafylos and follow the marked path over the headland (around 5 minutes) to reach Velanio.
Agnondas
The main reason to come here is to enjoy the picturesque fishing port and restaurants in Agnondas, but the small beach is a pretty spot to while away an hour or two after lunch. It feels calmer and more traditional than some of the more famous beaches on Skopelos.
Location: On the south-west coast, about 8 km from Skopelos Town via the main road towards Limnonari. It’s usually possible to park near the harbour.
Limnonari
This is another more rustic and less commercial place, with pine trees for shade and calm waters for paddling or swimming. You need to walk a little way to reach it, so beach shoes are a must.
Location: On the south-west coast, roughly 9 km from Skopelos Town. Exit off the main Agnondas - Panormos road and then walk down to the beach.
Hovolo
A hidden gem near Neo Klima, with fine shingle washed by peacock-blue water that’s idyllic for snorkelling and swimming. You need to walk along a rocky path to reach it, or you can wade through the sea; take your supplies for the day as there are few facilities.
Location: Just north of the village of Neo Klima (Elios) on the west coast, about 18 km from Skopelos Town. Park in Neo Klima and follow the marked coastal path around the rocks.
Spilia
The place to come for a natural and unspoilt setting, with pebbles, cliffs and sea caves. You can reach it on foot in about 15 to 20 minutes, or take a boat trip. However you get here, there are no beach facilities so remember to pack plenty of water.
Location: Beneath the famous Mamma Mia! church on the north-east coast, roughly 30 km from Skopelos Town. From the chapel parking area, follow the path downhill toward the sea.
Things to do
Sunset drinks
For the ultimate holiday indulgence, head to the west coast beaches at sunset. Favourites are Panormos, Milia or Kastani, where beach bars and tavernas serve chilled cocktails or local wine, and you can watch as the sky deepens from gold to violet to midnight blue.
Boat trips
Take one of the many excellent excursions from Skopelos Town or Glossa to hidden coves, sea caves and beaches only reachable by boat. For the animal lovers in your party, choose one that includes the Marine Park for a chance to spot dolphins and monk seals.
Spring and autumn walks
Skopelos is criss-crossed with well-marked trails that are wonderful for walkers in the cooler months. You can walk from Skopelos Town to Mount Palouki for panoramic views of the Aegean, or explore gentle coastal paths between secluded beaches.
Agios Ioannis church
Yes it’s a cliché, but it has to be done! Just next to Glossa village, 105 stone steps wind up a rocky outcrop to the chapel of Agios Ioannis Kastri, where the famous wedding scene in Mamma Mia! was filmed. The perfect photo stop, with sweeping sea views.
Watersports
Calm and clear, the sea around Skopelos is perfect for all kinds of watersports. Paddleboard around sheltered coves at Panormos or Limnonari, kayak between hidden beaches, or snorkel over rocky reefs teeming with fish. Guides and equipment are widely available.
Day trip to Alonissos
Hop on the ferry to Alonissos (15-30 minutes), which lies within the National Marine Park, home to Mediterranean monk seals. The ferry docks at Patiri, from where you can take a taxi to Alonissos Town, brimming with cafes, restaurants, and small local craft shops.
Events
Easter is the biggest event on the Greek calendar, marked by traditional processions, masses and feasting. The date changes each year and is often later than in the UK.
What’s on in May
1 May
Labour Day is a public holiday, celebrated with picnics and the gathering of spring flowers. Many shops close but restaurants remain open.
What’s on in June
Jun
Navy Week celebrates the ancient connections the Greeks have with the sea.
What’s on in August
6 Aug
Locals and visitors gather on the beach at Loutraki to eat seafood and drink wine, accompanied by traditional music.
11 Aug
Neo Klima’s Squid Night is a fish and seafood feast, with the opportunity to join in with Greek folk dances and listen to traditional music.
15 Aug
Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Apo Kimisis tis Panagia), a major religious festival celebrated at Glossa.
Last week of Aug
Skopelos Prunes Festival, with traditional music and dancing, accompanied by prune dishes and wine.
What’s on in September
8 Sep
The Virgin Mary’s birthday (Genisis tis Panangias) is celebrated throughout Greece with religious services and much feasting.
Mid Sep
Glossa holds a wine festival with lots of free tastings.
What’s on in October
28 Oct
‘Oxi’ Day (‘No’ Day) celebrates the Greek refusal of Italian occupation during WWII with marches, parades and much flag flying.
The Road Less Travelled
We asked our local representatives in Skopelos to share a few of their favourite ‘off the beaten track’ experiences. Here are some of their suggestions…
Enjoy some live music
Stunning Limnonari beach becomes even more special at night when your meal at one of the bay’s two excellent tavernas can be enjoyed to the sound of live acoustic music. Local musicians appear here once a week to entertain diners under the moonlight, and if you miss it, there's a taverna in Skopelos town where a celebrated bouzouki player holds regular impromptu music sessions with friends - just ask your concierge for details.
Discover a secret picnic spot
A short drive from Agnondas Port lies Cape Amarandos. After walking through pine trees (brushing against oregano, sage and thyme along the way) you’ll arrive at three trees standing on a limestone headland. There, a lazy picnic lunch will be accompanied by the sound of the sea lapping against the rocks.
Sip a Tsipouro
Gathering for a glass of the local clear brandy is a timeless tradition in this region of Greece – and there’s no better place to do it than in the pretty fishing port of Agnondas after a late afternoon swim. Aniseed in taste, Tsipouro is often served with a meze of seafood, making it the perfect way to try new and exciting fish dishes.
Witness an Aegean sunrise
A dawn walk up to Mount Sendoukia to watch the sun rise from beyond the island of Alonissos is well worth the early start. Views to Evia on one side of the island, and even Halkidiki and Mount Olympus on the other, are a photographer’s dream. Even if it’s just once on your holiday, set an alarm clock!
Enjoy your coffee with a view
Sitting as it does, high above the town, Skopelos' ruined Venetian castle is perfectly positioned for a morning coffee overlooking the old port. Take the steps up from Panagitsa Church for views of fishing boats returning to the harbour far below, while the first yachts of the day venture out for a little island hopping.
